FAQs
How Long Do Appointments last?
Your initial consultation will last one hour to allow for a thorough medical history and examination to better understand your symptoms.
Follow-up visits last 45 minutes, most of which are spent providing hands-on care.
What should I wear?
If you feel comfortable, your osteopath may ask you to undress to aid an examination. Loose and comfortable clothing with appropriate underwear is advised.
If you would prefer not to undress, please let us know at the time of your appointment.
Do I need to bring anything with me to my appointment?
You’re welcome to bring along any relevant prescriptions or medical reports that we might find useful in understanding your condition.
Are there any side effects after treatment?
Potential post-treatment side effects will be discussed at the beginning of your first appointment. These can include post-treatment soreness and fatigue, which will quickly subside within 48 hours. Your body may continue to adjust to treatment the week following treatment in a positive manner.
How Many Osteopathic Treatments Will I need?
The number of appointments required will depend on each patient’s diagnosis, lifestyle, and medical history. We aim to keep the number of appointments required as low as possible and spread out appointments with progression to promote the body’s self-healing. Some patients choose to continue maintenance or preventative treatments once the symptoms have resolved. We will discuss our estimated prognosis at the end of your initial consultation.
Do I need to be referred by my doctor?
Self-funding patients do not need a referral. Our online booking is open to all 24/7. Appointments funded by your health insurance may, however, require a referral from your doctor.
Is Osteopathy safe?
Osteopaths are trained to screen each patient for illnesses, conditions, and related signs or symptoms. If osteopathic treatment is deemed inappropriate or unsafe, we can help with a referral to another physician. In some circumstances only certain techniques would be contraindicated. A full medical case history helps us plan the safest treatment and management plan.
How do I check if an osteopath is registered?
All UK osteopaths will be registered on the General Osteopathic Council Website. The register is public and can be found here:
What qualifications do osteopaths have?
All osteopaths in the UK must complete a 4-year degree to obtain their qualification. The course includes two years of supervised clinical placement work. In order to remain on the register with the General Osteopathic Council, regular CPD must be submitted and tracked annually. All practitioners must also hold their own professional indemnity insurance.
Can I claim my treatments on my health insurance?
This depends on the individual’s insurers. Our osteopaths are not currently registered with any insurance companies directly.
Many insurance companies will, however, still cover patients’ osteopathic treatments with the submission of a written and signed receipt with the practitioner’s registration number present.
You will need to check with your insurers in advance of your appointment and let our reception staff know.
Can someone come with me to my appointments?
Family and friends are more than welcome to accompany patients to their appointments.
If you would like more than oneadditional chaperone, please let us know in advance.
Do you offer home visits?
Yes, mobile osteopathy appointments are available on Tuesdays to residents of Maidstone.
Perfect for patients unable to make it into the clinic.
Please contact us for more information.
Do we just treat backs?
Not only do we provide treatment for back pain and “sciatica”. We are a healthcare clinic, offering relief for so much more.
From your head to your shoulders, knees and your toes, we do it all.